In this era of megatall skyscraper construction around the world, Jeddah Tower is the first that aims to exceed the previously undreamed-of one-kilometer threshold.

When it is completed in 2020, the 1,000-meter tower in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, designed by architect Adrian Smith, will become the world’s tallest building, easily eclipsing Burj Khalifa, the 830-meter-tall Dubai skyscraper, also designed by Smith.

Jeddah Tower, previously known as Kingdom Tower, will be the signature tower that welcomes pilgrims to Jeddah, the gateway to Mecca and Medina. It will also be the mixed-use centerpiece and first phase of Jeddah Economic City.

At 300,000 square meters, Jeddah Tower will house office space on the bottom, topped by an opulent hotel, serviced apartments, and luxury condominiums. A circular observation deck, the tallest in the world, will protrude from one of the top levels. The building will have 56 elevators, and the top third of the three-legged concrete structure will be a hollow spire. Each of the tower’s three tapering sides will feature a series of notches that create shadow, serving as shields from the sun and providing outdoor terraces with stunning views.

Originally published on May 20, 2019 by Erik Weinbrecht